Navigating Languages: How Code-Switching Influences Iranian EFL Learners’ Fluency and Willingness to Communicate in L2

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

• Mohammad Iman Askari ¹
• Farnaz Hakim Attar ²
• Neda Fatehi Rad ³

¹ Assistant professor Department of English Language,, Central Tehran Branch,, Islamic Azad University,, Tehran,, Iran

² Ph.D. candidate, Department of English Language,, Central Tehran Branch., Islamic Azad University, Tehran,, Iran

³ Associate professor Department of English Language,, Kerman Branch,, Islamic Azad University, Kerman,, Iran

10.22067/lts.2025.91967.1326

Abstract

The current study explores the impact of code-switching on Iranian English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners, focusing on its influence on their willingness to communicate (WTC) and fluency in the second language (L2). Code-switching, the practice of alternating between languages in conversation, is examined as a potential facilitator or barrier to effective communication. The research selects a mixed-methods approach, mixing quantitative assessments of WTC and fluency and qualitative interviews to gain insights into learners’ experiences. The results showed that code-switching can enhance learners’ WTC and fluency. Also, the interview results showed that for L2 learners, besides using Persian unconsciously, the most frequent reason was to build confidence and comfort, and the least frequent one was to develop metacognitive skills.

Highlights

 

Keywords

• Code-switching
• Communication
• fluency
• L2 learners
• Willingness to communicate

Main Subjects

• Language Education

Full Text

 

 

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